The return of Paul from the Diamond Center …

As longtime The Poop readers know, I’m obsessed with old commercials starring Paul from the Diamond Center, arguably the most memorable TV commercial pitchman in Bay Area history. I collect YouTube videos of Paul much like I imagine Ann Getty collects 15th century Ming vases. (Here are twoexamples.)

The above commercial, posted two weeks ago by a YouTuber named graphichris, probably dates to 1983 or 1984. It’s like the equivalent of an early Stones album before anyone discovered psychedelics — maybe “Out of Our Heads” or “12 x 5.” Paul already has his awkward charm, but he’s still looking for his muse. He clearly hasn’t had that revelatory moment that led to him grinning like a crazy man, getting carried around by some floozies and singing “I’m a credit man!”

— There’s something very cult-like about the way Paul puts his hand on the woman’s shoulder at the end and says in his fake-concerned voice “I’m glad you came to see us.” I could definitely see Paul in a Snuggie.

— The bonus Fuller’s Limousine commercial (after Paul) is also extremely awesome, even better than the Pete Ellis Dodge ad. I especially like the modern touches in the limos like the television and the car phone.

— “Peter Ellis Dodge, 1095 West El Camino Real Sunnyvale!” So sorry. That’s probably going to be in your head for the rest of the week.